Key facts

Things to do in the Seychelles

Surprisingly, for a seemingly small island paradise, there are numerous things to do in the Seychelles.

The Seychelles are world famous for their picture postcard beaches. There are over 65 beaches on the island of Mahé alone, where you can enjoy uncrowded white sands, framed by some of the oldest granite boulders on earth. Praslin is where you will find Anse Georgette and Anse Lazio beaches, both often listed among the world’s top ten beaches.

With a wide variety of islands, each one with its own character, history and geography, island hopping will add an unforgettable dimension to your holiday experience. See the capital of Victoria on Mahe, the preserved Vallee de Mai on Praslin, the local wildlife on Bird Island, tiny Cousine Island, giant tortoises in Fregate Island, the biodiversity of Silhouette Island, the charming way of life in La Digue, and much more.

Meanwhile, snorkelling in the Seychelles is a highlight for any visitor. The crystal clear waters are an underwater paradise for millions of tropical fish, colourful coral reef and vibrant marine life.

A visit to the Seychelles is easily combined with a holiday to Kenya.

Key facts

Capital:

Mahe Island

Flying time from London:

12 hours

Time difference:

+ 4hrs GMT

Currency:

Seychelles rupee

Official language(s):

Creole and English

Visa requirements:

Visa not required

Top things to do in Seychelles

Explore the capital of Victoria

Originally settled in 1778 by the French, the capital was eventually named after Queen Victoria. At the centre is the focal point of the city – a clock tower, a copy of the Little Ben outside Victoria station in London. Walk the narrow streets of the old town to see colonial buildings, Anglican and Roman Catholic cathedrals and the impressive Capuchin House. Visit the National History Museum, explore tropical gardens and go to the lively morning market where the stalls are stacked with tropical fruits, spices and freshly caught fish.

Do not miss Mahe

With a backdrop of towering granite peaks, Mahe’s landscape is a treasure trove of unique flora that has evolved over centuries of isolation. A leisurely tour of the island by car will take about half a day and reveal a wealth of attractions as well as the cultural diversity of its people – descendants from Africa, India, China and Europe.

Visit the Valle de Mai

The main attraction of Praslin is the Vallee de Mai, a Unesco world heritage site that is home to a prehistoric rainforest of huge trees that dominate the landscape. The vegetation here is so different that it was once believed to be the original site of the Garden of Eden. The 8000-year-old coral reefs are populated by fantastically coloured fish, and attract fans of the underwater world. Meanwhile, large granite formations decorate almost every beach on the island. Walking trails lead to a beautiful waterfall and sheltered viewpoints that look over the valley.

Go back in time to La Digue

One of the most charming islands in the Seychelles, La Digue has a relaxed way of life where ox-cart traditional transport is still used today. With a rich biodiversity, the island is home to the black paradise flycatcher, one of the world’s rarest birds and a number of beautiful beaches with long stretches of white sand, turquoise blue lagoons and stunning granite boulders.

Discover biodiversity in North Island

North Island is regarded as one of Seychelles' most fertile islands and has a rich biodiversity. Its 5-star luxury eco-tourism resort not only offers high standards of barefoot luxury, but also plans to re-introduce endangered flora and fauna on to the island to help preserve some of Seychelles’ precious endemic species.